Inspiration: Saria from OoT, she's a wonderful character; Elincia from Fire Emblem (I think if Saria grew up she would look like that lol); OoT.
Author Notes: This story does not follow canon precisely. There will be made up histories and stories involving LoZ characters. If this bothers you please don't read it, because I'm not changing it. This story was originally completed 2/27/2012-5/20/2012. I'm revamping it to correct the grammar (I still may miss some here and there), to include different POV's, and add more content in the succeeding chapters. This story will have elliptical & adverbial clauses (refer to my profile if you don't know what that is), so please make sure you're aware of that if you want to review. I'm revamping this story on 12/27/2012 in the hopes of getting it done within a month (or months I can't make promises lol), and so that some of you can know where some of the fictional history came from for How Zelda Got Her Groove Back. Thanks and I hope you like it. ~ZR~.
I do not own any intellectual properties, it all is owned and licensed by Nintendo EDA.
Chapter 1
I wonder how many Hylians contemplate on the premise of something being missing in their lives. It seems like it would be a simple enough activity. However, introspection can be one of the hardest things to do, especially if an individual isn't honest with their self. Why am I thinking about this, and why is this of importance now? I've been reflecting on the concept because my life is about to change in an enormous way.
How?
Let me explain.
This should be a good time for me; a happy time actually. There's a certain kind of irony that goes with this, because I'm the Hero of Time. So, time is relative in how I speak about it. Anyway, I rescued Hyrule eight years ago from the clutches of an evil dictator named Ganondorf, and freed the seven the sages to protect his seal. I should be in a surreal place right now, but I'm not.
Why?
I can't really say for certain. I'm twenty-five. I'm about to get married to the most beautiful woman in the world. I have every amenity at my disposal. I have the respect of the kingdom. I have the respect of the court. The citizens are free and living content lives. There is nothing more that I could possibly want. So, why am I so discontent?
That's the question that's been plaguing my mind for the last eight years. I don't necessarily have an answer for it. However, lately that inquiry has been demanding a requisition. I've been trying to figure out for years what this restlessness is that's been toiling inside me. I can only attribute it to one thing: I think I could possibly be making a big mistake. What mistake? Becoming the king of Hyrule.
King…
I'm a warrior, not a politician. In fact, I have a strong distaste for politicians. They are the first to urinate on the citizens, and then convince them it's raining. I know that seems like a disgusting analogy, but it's true. I never wanted a life like that for myself. I never wanted to be shackled to a throne. I'm used to being free. I'm used to roaming the countryside, and living my life as I see fit. Not standing in a carriage to make appearances to different proxies for trade envoys. Not smiling and putting up a guise of friendship with people I normally distaste. Not pretending that an enemy of Hyrule isn't an enemy of Hyrule. That isn't who I am.
I like my freedom. I like my sense of credulity. I like my life of adventure. In all honesty, it's all I've ever known. However, don't misunderstand. I don't want to be king not because I am afraid of responsibility, but because I know the true weight of what that office holds.
The current king of Hyrule, Daphnes Nohansen, tells that tale all too well. I consider him the ultimate politician. He has a tenacity, and a placated nature that makes him perfect for that office. However, those same attributes are what put him and I at odds from time to time. It's been nothing too tense, but the undercurrent of verve has always been there. In any such case, that doesn't seem to matter, and since I carry the title, Hero of Time, I have very little choice otherwise.
I was going to become the king.
Daphnes was making sure of that.
That's why I've waited eight years. Eight years of expectancies and marriage proposals can wear a man down, and truthfully, I still don't think I'm ready. However, the king of Hyrule can be very convincing when he wants to be. What do I mean? I would rather not say.
By all accounts, I should be ecstatic. I'm marrying the most sought after woman not in just my region, but in all the surrounding regions of Hyrule. Some of the princes acquainted with Zelda still find it incredulous that she would choose a woodland inhabitant over a regent of a country. I'm not going to lie, I find it intriguing as well. However, Hyrule's crown jewel, princess Zelda, was a very unorthodox woman. Nothing about her was as it seemed. Many of the pomp and circumstance crowd didn't know that about her. They would probably be flabbergasted if they knew about her days as a disguised Sheikah.
The thought of that made me chuckle.
Zelda is beautiful, there is no denying that. Her golden strawberry blonde hair, and perfect hourglass silhouette made pondering what was under her dresses a less cumbersome activity. Her wisdom out shined and out witted any sly individual who tried to challenge her. Her Sage-ship and duty rivaled, and perhaps surpassed her father's charge as king.
She is perfect.
Maybe too perfect.
I often asked myself what I had in common with her. We both shared the burden of bearing the Triforce, and we both saved Hyrule. That was where our similarities ended. Even still, she wants to marry me. I don't know why Zelda wants to marry me, but she does. I have nothing to offer her in terms of a dowry, or connections in terms of diplomatic favors. I have nothing a princess would see as useful to becoming king.
Zelda tells me she loves me, and I believe her. She's been putting up with my procrastination for the last eight years, so I guess it must be true. What woman in her right mind, besides a woman in love, would stay with a man for eight years without a ring on her finger? I want Zelda to be happy. She has endured so much for the sake of Hyrule, and if I can give her a small sense of solace, I will. She deserves it.
However, here's my problem: I'm not in love with Zelda. Don't get me wrong, I love her, but as for that deep important emotional connection, I just don't feel it with her. Maybe it's my commoner woodland past. Maybe it's the different social standings. Maybe it's the history of the royal family. Or... maybe I'm just overreacting, I don't know, but for whatever reason I'm not in love with her. I see it in Zelda's eyes when she looks at me, but I can't reciprocate it. A man can't reciprocate what he doesn't feel. Even still, I asked her to marry me on the eve of our eighth year of acquaintance. Of course she said yes, and now the whole kingdom is in a buzz about our upcoming wedding.
So, why do I have these doubts? Every man has their doubts I suppose, marriage is a big deal. However, that still doesn't explain why I'm so hesitant to commit. Maybe it's because I've felt that reciprocated feeling for someone else once a long time ago. I know it may seem strange, and time often makes people forget such things, but there was something about that girl that I can't simply forget. I actually still have an inkling for her even though it's been years, and I know I can never be with her.
What was it about her that made her so special?
Nothing and everything.
She was simple. She was one of a kind. She didn't ask for much in her innocent existence. She was just a sweet girl who was my best friend. I say 'was' because I haven't seen her in eight years. After finding out her real identity, and the fact she was a sage, that halted any intentions I had with her. Even still, I never had to prove anything to her to make her love me. She loved me first, and that made me want to love her back.
Who was she?
Her name was Saria. She's a sage of the forest, she lives in the Sacred Realm, and I miss her terribly. I couldn't be with her for various reasons, but the main one was because she was a Kokiri and I'm a Hylian.
It just... could never be.
Even still, the problem wasn't necessarily her race, but the circumstances surrounding her heritage. Kokiri never age past ten years old; she will forever stay in a childlike state. As such, I had to grow up without her, even though sometimes I wish I didn't. Fighting Ganon was easier than losing her.
Seriously.
That's just how I felt about it.
I could tell her anything, and never feel silly doing so. That's important for a man. Anyway, I still think about her, and I hope she's doing well. I hope she's safe. I know she's doing her duty, but I often wonder if she thinks of me the way I think of her. I know it's a silly depressing thing to ponder over, but life is full of reflections. Saria just happens to be one of mine.
At present, I was walking in Hyrule Castle Town looking for a bazaar shop that specialized in male wedding attire. I often walked to reflect on things. It was a great way for me to have some time alone. I was told I could send out servants to take care of such menial tasks, but I enjoyed small things like this too much to allay it to the care of someone else. Besides, it provided me a minor escape from the confines of the castle, and allowed me to mix informally with the citizens. I wanted to enjoy as much freedom as possible. I knew one day such leisure walks would be a thing of the past.
That day is fast approaching, I thought.
I continued through the cobblestone square, and was stopped every once in a while to be greeted with a bid of thanks by some of the town's people. Many of them were simple merchants, and business men. They often reminded me how grateful they were that Ganondorf's rule was circumvented.
"Mr. Link!" a young man exclaimed and ran up to me. "I have a gift for you!"
The young man handed me a hand crafted whistle. I grinned and took it gratefully.
It actually looks pretty good, I thought.
"Thank you," I replied with appreciation, "how long did it take you to carve this?"
The young man was surprised by my question, and lifted his eyebrows.
"Less than an hour," he divulged.
I looked at him surprised and then reexamined the whistle.
"You have talent," I said, "something like this would've taken me a week."
He looked at me shocked.
"Really sir?" he inquired. "You?"
I knew everyone thought of me as a hero, but I had my limitations like anyone else.
That's the trial of a title Link, I told myself.
"Yes," I replied, and the pocket the gift in my satchel, "thank you for the consideration."
The young man bowed, then suddenly took hold of the cloak I was wearing.
"Thank you so much Hero of Time," he said with a trembling voice, "I can't tell you how grateful I am that I still have my wife and son."
His words were sobering to me, and reminded me of how close Hyrule was to becoming a haven for Ganondorf.
That was a dark time for everyone, I thought.
I nodded, but was a little overcome by his praise and adulation.
"You don't need to thank me," I replied serious, "you would have done the same thing if you were given the means."
The young man avoided my eyes and shook his head in disagreement.
"I can't say that I would sir," he said honest as he walked away, "bless you Link, bless you."
I stared after the man for a moment, thinking about his apt confession.
Maybe it is presumptuous of me to think everyone would do the same thing, I thought. Hyrule was under Ganondorf's reign for seven years before it was stopped by me. No one dared to challenge him, but in all honesty what was to be expected from simple farmers? They had to think of their families.
I didn't linger on the matter too much, and continued my search for the store. The large cream colored and brown effaced building on the east side of Castle Town housed the general bazaar. I started my search there. I entered the shop, and a large burly man was behind the oak wood counter. He perked when he saw me enter; he was probably thinking rupee signs.
I grinned at the change in his disposition.
Let's see what bargains he has today, I thought, going up to the counter and resting my gauntlet straddled arm on the rest.
"So, how is our soon to be king doing today?" the burly man asked in a gratuitous voice. "What can I help you with sir?"
I looked beyond the man, and immediately noticed the weaponry on the shelves in the back.
A new arrow quiver would be excellent for target practice, I thought, but I'm not here for that. Zelda would have a fit.
"I need to have some clothes made," I began.
The burly man nodded in agreement. "For your wedding no doubt."
I smirked and shook my head.
"News travels fast, doesn't it?" I asked, realizing I had only asked Zelda to marry me the other day.
"There are always ears listening in the castle young master," the burly man stated.
Well, that's a comforting thought, I pondered sarcastic.
"Can you make the clothes for me?" I asked, remembering why I was there.
The burly man scratched the back of his neck.
"I don't specialize in seams master Link," he stated, "but I do know a new cloak maker that just moved into the area. She set up shop in Kakariko Village with a gentleman who owns a bazaar shop there. I heard she was a rather breathtaking girl."
I nodded, and ignored his added information.
I only care if she knows how to sew, I thought.
"Thank you, I'll head over there now," I replied, and turned to head for the door.
The shop owner raised his eyebrows at me walking away.
"Uh… is there some other ware I can help you with good sir?" the burly man asked me, hoping I wouldn't leave before spending a rupee or two. "I noticed your back is unharnessed, even a skilled man like you needs to be on guard."
I'll give him this, I thought, pausing at the door, he knows how to latch a deal.
I turned back around and eyed the quiver once more beyond his head.
That is a beauty, I thought.
"How much are you selling the quiver for?" I asked.
"For you, one hundred rupees," the man replied.
I raised my eyebrows and nodded at the price. "Not bad."
"You are going to be the future king, sir knight," he goaded, "I only give my best prices to my best customers. I'll even throw in paraffin wax so you can keep the wood shiny," the man added.
I smirked again at the man's customer savvy.
"You drive a good bargain," I said, "all right, I'll take it."
The man immediately fist pumped himself in recognition to his business prowess. "I knew you were a man of good tastes."
Of course, I thought sarcastic.
I grinned and paid the rupees. I then picked up the quiver and tightened the leather latch.
"It's pretty sturdy," I complimented, "this is well made."
I put my new quiver over my shoulders and felt how it rested behind my back; it fit perfectly.
"It was made for you Sir Link," the man said proud, "be sure to tell your friends in arms to come and visit me. I'm building a new weapon shop soon."
What can be expected from a wares peddler? I wondered.
"I'm sure it was," I replied, keenly aware of merchant theatrics, "and I'll spread the word, thanks."
I turned and left the bazaar. I was about to head for the draw bridge leading to Hyrule Field, when I stopped and realized I had to head back to the castle.
Wait a minute… I thought with a trail, isn't Zelda is waiting for me? I asked myself.
I quickly answered my own question, and headed in the opposite direction in the town square. I had nearly forgotten my lunch date with the princess. She made me promise her the day before not to overlook it. I quickened my step as I headed for the castle.
It skipped my mind just that quickly, I thought. Never keep a princess waiting.
I hurried past the castle gate, and sprinted over the perfectly manicured gardens and veered to the side entrance of the secondary internal garden. I paused for a moment so a guard wouldn't catch me lurking in the thickets of the bushes. Once he passed, I hurried toward the center of the area and stood erect. I removed my cloak in a hurry and ran a hand through my blonde hair.
That was close Link, I told myself.
A few moments later Zelda appeared with several servants. She came from the hall, leading from the castle to the outer gardens where I was waiting for her.
Act natural, I thought, plastering on a smile, one thing a woman is perceptive to is when a man forgets what he is supposed to do.
I bowed after removing my green hat.
"Good morning your highness," I said.
Zelda smiled at my pleasantry and bowed in return, she then gestured for me to sit at a table she had prepared for the two of us. I nervously cleared my throat as I sat down.
Good save, I commended myself.
Zelda then sat down across from me; she was an absolute vision in pink. Her hair was crowned with a wreath arrangement of flowers. Her long blonde hair was brushed off her shoulders down her back. Her soft blue eyes looked at me with warmth and love. She looked like the epitome of womanhood.
She looks beautiful, I couldn't help but admire.
I smiled at the princess, hoping she didn't notice my now sweaty disposition from my run.
Come on breeze, I prayed of the air, cool me off.
In any such case, Zelda didn't seem to notice, and clapped her hands. At the beckoning, the servants obliged a meal fit for a king and queen.
This is certainly something, I thought, knowing this was too much food for two people, especially Zelda, who ate very small portions.
I looked down at the opulence and didn't know if I should eat the delicacies or just stare at them. Zelda noticed my dilemma and giggled sympathetically.
"What's the matter darling?" she asked me.
I raised my eyebrows and crossed my arms over my chest.
"Nothing, I suppose," I replied.
Zelda shook her head and smiled.
"They won't bite Link," she said, pouring me a cup of tea, "they're waiting for you to bite them."
I blushed, realizing how foolhardy I seemed. However, that had always been my problem. I didn't know royal etiquette very well, even after eight years of being around the princess.
You would think I picked something up by now, I thought.
"They're just so pretty," I stated, with a poor attempt at humor.
Zelda laughed again.
"Oh Link," she said breathless, then decided to change the subject, "tell me about your morning. What have you been up to?"
I picked up what I thought was a tea cake and ate it.
"Well-" I started with a full mouth.
Zelda raised a brow and cleared her throat.
"Ahem," she interrupted me politely, "Link... you still have food in your mouth my love."
I raised both my eyebrows, and looked at her a little stunned, not knowing if I should be embarrassed or annoyed.
I guess maybe I did bring that upon myself, I thought, just fix it and move on. That was pretty untoward for a princess to see.
I quickly chewed and swallowed the cake.
"I went to Castle Town this morning," I said, trying to ignore my discomfiture.
"Were you shopping?" Zelda asked me with a hopeful undertone.
I nodded.
"Actually, I was," I replied, "I'm looking for a seamstress or tailor to design my wedding outfit."
Zelda's face lit up when I said that.
"That's wonderful!" she replied happily. "But don't you think it's a little early to have your clothes made?"
I shrugged, not really considering the notion.
"I figured better now than never," I said.
Zelda chuckled at my logic.
"I suppose my love," she said shaking her head, and then added, "I can't really scold you, when I just spoke to father about having a seamstress brought in from Gerudo Valley to design my wedding dress."
I looked at her puzzled just then.
"A Gerudo seamstress?" I asked. "Why a Gerudo seamstress?"
Zelda's smile widened at my inquiry.
"When I was disguised as Sheik," she started, "I'd get my clothing tailored by this magnificent Gerudo woman who lived behind the waterfalls. Every time I tore my outfit, she'd mend it for me."
When Zelda mentioned herself as Sheik, I couldn't help but feel a genuine sense of admiration for her. It was a very dangerous undertaking to aid me the way she did on my journey. I would always be grateful for the solace and comfort her songs and wisdom gave me, always.
She really is an extraordinary person, I thought, one I hope I'm worthy of.
"That's wonderful that you remember her so vividly," I replied honest, eating another cake, "I'm sure she'll be more than glad to help you."
Zelda looked away for a moment and sighed.
"She assisted me during some of my darkest times," she said, "I hope she honors me by making my dress."
I smiled at her sincerity.
"I don't think she'll refuse Zelda," I replied, "I'm sure she'll consider it an honor."
Zelda looked back at me and grinned.
"I hope not," she replied, then added with excitement, "I can't believe we're already planning our wedding Link. Isn't this amazing?"
I grinned at her happiness.
This means so much to her, I thought.
"It is," I said, eating another cake.
Zelda looked away from me again and blushed suddenly.
"To be honest, I thought you were never going to ask me," she detracted, changing the subject. "We'd been courting for so long, I thought maybe we were going to enter middle age as unsettled adults."
I looked at her and suddenly felt guilty.
She's right, I thought, I've been stringing her along for years, getting her hopes up and down. Now that I finally proposed, it seems like all that time just flashed by. I wish I could have some of it back honestly. She has no idea how many times I've thought about reneging, and it's only been two days.
I sighed at my thoughts, and looked over at the future queen.
"I had to be sure Zelda," I said honest, "I couldn't ask for your hand if I wasn't sure."
I was providing lip service, because I still wasn't sure, and to be honest I didn't think I ever would be. However, my words apparently had the right effect, she smiled again.
"So, you're sure now?" she said sardonic. "Well, at least that is a relief."
Zelda giggled again, and I smiled at her sense of joy.
I love her smile, I thought sincere.
"I just want you to be happy again," I said, reaching over and taking her hand in mine.
Zelda looked at me and squeezed my hand affectionately.
"I am happy," she said, "I can't wait to be your wife Link."
I squeezed her hand back.
"I can't wait for you to be my wife either," I said back softly.
I noticed out of the corner of my eye the servants conspicuously whispering to each other about our conversation. I had to admit, the lack of privacy was bothersome and something I would never get used to.
I feel like I'm in a harem with all the gossip about Zelda and I, I thought.
It must have showed on my face because Zelda asked me, "What's the matter my love?"
I sighed, not wanting to answer right away, but I averted my eyes to the direction of the servants.
"Oh," Zelda replied, understanding the action, and then turned to them, "ladies you are dismissed. I'll call you if I need you."
The servants gave minor looks of disappointment, before bowing and exiting the garden to the castle. I sighed in relief once they were gone.
Everything Zelda and I say is under a lens of truth, I thought, we can never have a casual conversation alone.
"Thank the goddess," I muttered to myself of their departure.
Zelda looked at me a slightly concerned. She got up from her seat and stood behind me in mine. She leaned over and wrapped her arms around my neck, letting her hands drape at my chest. It was a nice consoling gesture.
"This world is so different for you, isn't it?" she whispered in my ear. "You're so used to being able to come and go as you please and say what you feel without regret or consequence. I'm sorry it's such a drastic change, but I know you can do this. You defeated Ganon."
I knew she was trying to comfort me, but it wasn't really working.
I like my privacy, I thought, nothing is going to change that.
"Ganon has nothing on court life," I joked halfhearted, "maybe that's what drove him crazy."
Zelda squeezed me tight and rested her head on my shoulder.
"I love you Link," she said softly.
I hesitated when she uttered that.
I know you do, I thought, but... can I honestly live like this?
"I love you too," I heard myself say.
Do I mean that? I wondered. Am I lying to her?
Zelda nuzzled her pretty face against my neck and sighed. She was always so loving and womanly to me. It was an attractive feature about her. However, a moment later she jumped up from her affections and stood erect. I looked at her concerned thinking something was wrong, but then turned my head to the garden castle entrance and saw that her father king Daphnes came into the garden.
Oh boy, I thought.
I jumped up myself just then and bowed.
I think every man is terrified of their soon to be in laws, I thought.
Daphnes Nohansen was a man with a powerful presence. He was six feet five inches tall, with a strong jawline, and deep reflective brown eyes. The grey hair of his head and beard, and the fifty-two years of age of his life was deceptive to the muscular countenance he kept clothed at all times in his kingly garb. I never underestimated the strength and might of this king, even if I was a hero. I sparred with Daphnes on too many occasions to think he could be felled easily. I knew what kind of power that left hook of his had, and I also knew how brilliant he was with his favorite form of fighting: fencing.
I still need to get that tunic mended from when he serrated it, I thought
The king stopped short of Zelda and me and smiled. If there was one weakness in Daphnes' imposing presence, that would be the love he had for his daughter. He doted on Zelda the way any king would dote on a princess, but he was also very shrewd with the dealings with his daughter. He knew that she was very capable in her own right.
Zelda left my side to go give her father a hug. He hugged her back tight, then let her go and walked over to me with her hand in his. He placed a hand on my shoulder garnering my attention.
You have it sire, I thought, keeping the grin from spreading across my face.
"I just want to say," Daphnes began, in his deep perpetuating voice, "you have my utmost respect for having the courage to ask for my daughter's hand in marriage."
I raised my eyebrows and looked at him tentatively just then. Daphnes was always known for his blunt, brisk rhetoric. The inflection of sarcasm in his voice was a nuance I've learned to overlook through the years. Even still, there were some days he got under my skin.
Ignore it Link, I told myself.
"Thank you sire," I replied.
Zelda squeezed her father's hand affectionately at my reply.
"It's imbued in his spirit father," she said with admiration, "he does have the Triforce of Courage."
I smiled at Zelda, and Daphnes nodded.
"Indeed my dear," he said to her.
I looked between the two of them, before focusing back on the king.
"Your daughter is a special lady your majesty," I said deferential, "I hope I'm worthy of her."
Daphnes smiled at my humility.
"You're more than worthy," he said to me, "I couldn't ask for a better man to be my son-in-law."
I bowed respectfully at his words. Daphnes then let Zelda's hand go and placed it in mine.
"You two are Hyrule's future," Daphnes said serious, "it's very important that you understand what your duty means."
I swallowed hard after hearing that. Heading Hyrule's destiny was a huge responsibility, one that I was not taking lightly.
The future of this country is going to be in our hands… I thought with a trail.
There was a brief silence between all of us before Daphnes broke it.
"We always have a rite of passage for the princes and soon to be kings with the hunting of the royal elk," Daphnes stated abruptly. "Tomorrow I'd like you to join me Link in the hunt, as it is the heritage and tradition of the royal family."
I looked at king Daphnes in surprise. Royal elks were the rarest animals in the entire kingdom.
An invitation from the king himself? I thought in disbelief.
"I'd be honored your majesty," I replied.
This is really happening, I thought incredulous, I'm really taking the steps to become the next king of Hyrule.
"Father can I come too?" Zelda asked, not wanting to be left out.
The king smiled at his daughter and caressed her cheek.
"I have to say no this time my dear," Daphnes replied, "this is a rite for princes and kings only."
Zelda gave her father an upset look, but then digressed to his reason.
"Very well," she said with a sigh, "I guess I can live with that, if it's tradition."
I smiled at Zelda, and squeezed her hand.
"When I become king that will be the first tradition to go," I said as a joke.
Daphnes didn't find the comment funny.
"Speaking of which," the king said, changing the subject, "I've just received report that you are on the lookout for wedding attire."
I tried not to, but I looked at the king shocked.
I just left Castle Town, I thought in disbelief, how could he possibly know this already?
"Sire…" I trailed, not sure if I should go on.
"Stop this silly escapade," Daphnes continued, ignoring my trail, "I'll have your clothes made by the royal seamstress immediately."
I tried not to show it, but I was very annoyed by the intrusion. It was already starting, and I wasn't even king yet.
Let me see if I can salvage this without arousing his anger, I thought.
"That's quite alright your majesty," I said, trying to keep my tone respectful, "I'd like to do this venture on my own. It is for me, so I feel I'm the best suited for the endeavor."
The king fanned off my words with a gesture of the hand.
"Nonsense," Daphnes said, ignoring me, "I've already commissioned it."
I raised my eyebrows and took in a deep breath. At this point, even Zelda could see my annoyance.
He always does this, I thought, having to remember to keep my cool.
"Father…" the princess trailed uncomfortably, hoping her father would catch her drift.
It wasn't necessary. I could fight my own battles. However, I knew Zelda wanted to avoid a confrontation. She had mediated between Daphnes and I in the past. Two alpha males in the same space were bound to implode sooner or later.
I won't be disrespectful Zelda, I thought, don't worry.
"That won't be necessary sire," I replied audaciously to the king, "I already have a place, and a seamstress I'm going to go to. I'll have my clothes made there. Now, if you'll excuse me I need to get going."
I let Zelda's hand go and bowed. Neither one of them were expecting me to make a quick departure. I turned and headed for the garden exit.
The sooner I leave, the better, I thought, this is going nowhere fast.
"Hold it right there," Daphnes commanded me.
I closed my eyes and sighed.
Here we go, I thought.
I stopped in my tracks and turned back around. I bowed again, trying not to be insolent.
"Yes sire?" I inquired.
The king eyed me several moments before answering.
"Is there something wrong Link?" Daphnes asked me, already knowing that answer.
I was going to be civil and not goad this situation.
"Not at all your majesty," I replied with immediacy.
Daphnes nodded, not trusting me entirely. That was the biggest problem between him and I, trust. Neither one of us was willing to give it.
It's never been a royal family attribute, has it? I thought snidely.
There was a brief silence between all of us again.
"You would tell me, wouldn't you?" he asked me.
No, I thought.
"Of course," I lied.
Daphnes stared at me hard, sensing my sarcasm and then decided to add this, "I understand that you want to do things your way," he stated, "just remember not to forget your place."
I couldn't help but narrow my eyes slightly and look at him with open annoyance.
My place? I thought a little upset. I put my life on the line for your sovereignty, and you want to talk about knowing my place?
I let that slide, knowing that if I didn't it could potentially escalate the situation, and I didn't want to do that to Zelda. Instead, I smirked, so as not to chuckle and have my head cut off.
"Yes, your majesty," I verbalized, then quickly turned to grab my cloak and head out the garden.
"Link…" I heard Zelda say as I left, but I didn't stop.
Daphnes grunted and crossed his arms over his broad chest.
"He'll be back," I heard the king reply to his daughter softly.
Yeah, I'll be back alright, I thought with irritation, the question is: should I come back?
I quickened my step and left the castle via Castle Town. Once I was past the draw bridge, I pulled out my fairy ocarina and played Epona's song. It was a melody I learned as a child from a dear friend of mine named Malon.
I wonder how she's doing? I wondered, looking over at Lon Lon Ranch in the distance. I need to make it a point to call on her and see how she's doing.
Soon, a beautiful mahogany and white mare came trotting towards me. I patted her robust snout before I mounted her and had her gallop towards Kakariko Village. Kakariko Village was a small mountain town located at the cusp of Death Mountain. I often wondered why the Sheikah founded a village by such a dangerous place, but often regressed to the idea of it being related to some historical espionage.
Perhaps they needed to bury more of the royal family's secrets, I thought with cynicism regarding the monarchy, there are tombs that make witness to that in the graveyard.
Some of the thoughts scouring through my mind I knew were of a result of my being upset at Daphnes. Even still, there was no denying the shoddy history of the Nohansen bloodline. I didn't know all the secrets myself, but I knew there were plenty. It was a family known for their bloody history, and it was that family I was eventually going to marry into. It suddenly made me think about what was expected of me, and what I wanted for myself.
I don't know if Daphnes wants a future king, or just a husband for his daughter, I thought upset, whatever the case, it doesn't matter now anyway. I've already asked Zelda to marry me.
I rode across the large expanse of Hyrule field littered with sparse elm trees, and eventually got to Kakiriko Village impasse. I dismounted, leaving Epona behind, and hurried up the steps. It was early afternoon when I arrived, and the villagers were bustling about the town carrying out their day to day activities. I immediately spotted Cujo, a bald eccentric, sitting under the central tree of the village complaining about how much he hated everyone.
I shook my head at the sight of him and grinned.
Poor guy, I thought.
I should have avoided him, however, I decided to approach him anyway. I figured if anyone knew about this new seamstress it was Cujo. There wasn't a person who could come in or out of this town without his notice. He was perceptive like that.
"Afternoon Cujo," I said in a friendly manner as I approached, "how are you?"
Cujo's large eyes immediately narrowed when he caught sight of me. I didn't know why, but I knew he couldn't stand me.
Maybe it's because of what I did to his chicken years ago, I thought with a grin.
"What do you want?" he snapped.
Well, so much for the friendly banter, I thought, seeing I was going to have to go with a different approach.
"I hear you have some new neighbors," I said, getting to the point, "I'm looking for the new bazaar owner and a seamstress."
Cujo took in a long winded sigh. It was only a moment later when I realized he wasn't going to answer my question.
"I really hate you Link," he replied all of a sudden, shaking his head.
I paused for a moment and looked at him odd.
Well... I thought, that really isn't news.
"You… hate me?" I inquired, not really understanding why I was questioning him.
Cujo raised his eyebrows and gave me an obvious stare.
"Yes!" he exclaimed. "Why are you asking me this?"
I honestly don't know, I thought, raising my hands up in a friendly surrender.
"Uh… okay, sorry," I said, trying to think of another approach, "how about-"
"They're in the northwest store!" Cujo screamed at me suddenly.
I was a little startled by his outburst, but not necessarily surprised, this was Cujo after all. I did however, shut my mouth and step cautiously away from him.
No sense adding fuel to the fire Link, I thought, no sense at all.
"Uh… thanks," I replied.
Then he added in an odd fashion. "If you ask the girl to marry you I'll have you throttled!" Cujo threatened, "You hear me! Throttled!"
I merely shook my head as I walked away.
That poor guy is getting worse, I thought of Cujo's mental state, hopefully he won't have another stent in Hyrule asylum.
I continued following the road leading to a stairway near the entrance to Death Mountain. Along the way, many of the town's people inquired of my wellbeing and state of health. I answered their questions and then hurried along to my destination. I stopped short of the last shop on the incline when I read the sign: Bazaar and Tailor Shop.
That's practical and straight forward, I thought before going in.
I opened the door and was greeted by a kind looking older gentleman. He wore large, horn rimmed glasses, and simple peasant clothes. His salt and pepper hair was slicked back, and he had an affable disposition. He looked like the grandfather every child wanted to have.
He seems agreeable enough, I thought.
"Hello there young man," he greeted, "what can I do for you?"
I looked around and saw weaponry everywhere, but saw no sign of tailoring.
Am I in the right place? I thought.
"Do you make clothes here?" I asked.
The older man nodded.
"Yes, of course," he replied, "of course we do."
He gestured for me to sit over at a granite counter where several stools were stationary. I sat down on one of the seats and looked around, still trying to find some evidence I had the right place.
There's no sewing implements anywhere, I thought.
"Just one moment," he said to me, "the young lady who handles fabric wears will be with you shortly."
I nodded at him in recognition, and pulled my gauntlets off. I unhooded myself and massaged my wrists, those gauntlets often left my arms sore.
"Thank you," I replied, "there's no rush."
The older man then headed to the back and called for her. "You've got a customer!"
"Really?" the woman called back. "I'll be right there!"
I sighed and looked around once more, thinking perhaps I was wrong.
Maybe I should have let Daph- I thought.
"Good afternoon sir," a female voice welcomed me, interrupting my thought process.
I turned at the sound of her voice, and inadvertently my eyes widened at the sight of her. She was one of the most beautiful women I had ever seen… ever. That's saying a lot. I was temporarily dumbfounded because she wasn't what I was expecting.
The bazaar owner in Castle Town wasn't kidding, I thought, I thought when he said she was pretty, he was just saying it as a simple lip service. I had no idea she could encompass the beauty of Farore herself.
Her eyes were crystal blue, catlike, and deep set. Her slender nose panned down to a mouth that was heart shaped, red like a Goron's ruby, and pouty. She had shiny, thick, long, emerald green hair that flowed down her back and she kept swept off her face with a band. Her figure was slender yet curvaceous, and absolutely beautiful.
My goddess, I thought, having to shake my head to return to reality.
She smiled at me and chuckled, probably used to reactions like mine by now. However, it wasn't her beauty that had me so captivated. It was something in the manner of her air and natural disposition. There was a familiarity about her that was hauntingly conversant of the forest and the woodlands. She looked like she understood that kind of atmosphere well.
I paused as I stared at her face, and then an impossible thought crossed my mind.
It can't be! I thought, feeling my stomach turn in disbelief. She isn't!
"S-Saria?" I stuttered in incredulity anyway.
The woman took several steps back from the counter after she heard me utter that. She stared back at me shocked and slightly confused.
"I'm sorry?" she inquired, not sure she heard me right.
I swallowed hard and leaned in on the counter a little more. I couldn't take my eyes away from her green hair.
"Is your name Saria?" I asked again.
A troubled look crossed the woman's face just then.
"Who are you?" she demanded of me, her voice trembled slightly from fear. "How do you know my name?"
Please write a review and tell me what you think. The next chapter will be up Saturday.